Is it obligatory to pay for non-genuine software programs, some of which have been partially used and some of which are no longer sold, and is it necessary to purchase the latest versions?

Contemporary scholars differ on the ruling concerning copying unauthorized computer programs. Some hold it is absolutely impermissible, a view adopted by the Islamic Fiqh Academy and the Permanent Committee for Issuing Fatwas. Others permit copying for personal benefit without commercial gain, especially for students who cannot obtain original copies. It is more prudent for a Muslim to avoid purchasing, using, or copying these programs to avoid controversy. Original copies should be purchased if possible, and personal use of copied programs without commercial gain is a lighter matter. Based on the opinion of those who permit it, there is no obligation to compensate for past use, nor is there an obligation to purchase original copies if they are not needed.